Mini Solar Panel: Ideal power source for small devices/portable appliances
What is a mini solar panel?
A solar panel comprises photovoltaic cells which are made of silicon or other semiconductor materials. A normal solar panel seen on rooftops is typically 65 x 39 inches in size and used for residential applications. Similarly, a solar panel seen on solar farms or commercial solar power plants is generally 77 x 39 inches in size. As opposed to these conventional solar panels, there are smaller types of solar panels which qualify as mini solar panel .These panels can come in sizes that range from 0.6 x 2.55 inches to 8.85 x 5.12 inches.
How do mini solar panels work?
When exposed to sunlight the photovoltaic cells in a solar panel receive energy which they absorb. They transfer the absorbed energy to the semiconductor which helps create an electric field which in turn delivers voltage and current. Voltage and current combine to deliver power as per the equation P (power) = V (voltage) x I (current). The power generated is measured in watts (W).
Features of mini solar panels
- The electric field produced comprises almost constant voltage but current that varies with the amount of sunlight falling on the cells.
- A typical mini solar panel can generate between 0.06 and 4 watts of electric power.
- Mini solar panels are very small panels as compared to their larger counterparts and therefore can be used for small applications where limitation of space is an issue.
Applications of solar panels
Mini solar panels can be used to power a host of applications that require low power.
- They are good for devices that do not consume too much energy.
- They can be used to power pocket calculators, watches, flashlights, cameras, wearable devices and radios.
- They can also power laptops and mobile phones in combination with batteries. These solar panels can recharge batteries and ensure continuous power supply.
